Isolation and loneliness are common in elderly people who are living alone. There are several reasons why elderly people may struggle more with loneliness including, declining health, lack of mobility, retirement from work, and deaths of friends and family members. Loneliness can impact both physical and mental health, so it’s essential to recognise signs of loneliness promptly and take measures to address the issue. Hiring a professional home carer can be a great way to help seniors who may be struggling with loneliness, and in this blog, we have explored what carers can do to give their clients the social interaction they need.
Offering Companionship
One of the key benefits home care offers is companionship. Friends and family members may have other responsibilities which require their attention and reduce the amount of time they can spend with elderly loved ones. Home carers can dedicate their time and focus their time and energy on their clients. Carers allow seniors to see a familiar, friendly face regularly, while engaging in meaningful conversations, participating in activities together, and generally enjoying one another’s company. This companionship gives seniors something to look forward to, helps them maintain important social interactions, and allows them to feel seen, valued, and connected.
Helping with Technology
Living in a digital age means it’s easier than ever to stay in contact with loved ones even when they cannot visit in person; however, some elderly people struggle to understand or use technological devices. Home carers are on hand to provide support, helping to set up devices that allow seniors to communicate with their loved ones, whether it’s a phone call, a video call or a game. Not only do seniors get to maintain contact with their loved ones, but they can also learn some new technological skills.
Encouraging Social Engagement
Getting older can mean that going out can become more difficult. Mobility limitations, poor health, and lack of transportation can get in the way of attending social events and activities, leading to feelings of social isolation and loneliness. Professional carers can assist clients, helping them get out of the house, whether it’s walking, using public transport, or a mobility aid; having the help of a carer can make venturing out of the house less daunting and stressful for elderly people. Carers can also help with arranging social outings, finding activities or clubs that their clients may enjoy, allowing them to meet new people.
Recognising Signs of Declining Mental Health
Loneliness can lead to depression, but when living alone, it can be hard to recognise signs or admit that mental health may be declining. Having a carer stop in means seniors can get the physical care they need, but carers can also monitor their clients for signs of depression and take active steps to combat it. Signs may include – changes in appetite and weight, oversleeping or trouble sleeping, low moods, lack of energy, and a loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities, to name a few. While seniors may struggle to recognise these signs or their significance, carers can provide mental and emotional support – by offering a listening ear, encouraging physical and mental activities, facilitating social interactions, and contacting health professionals where necessary.
Building Routines
Not getting out of the house as often and losing certain structures, such as retiring from work, can leave elderly people feeling at a loss, purposeless, and without motivation, which can create a sense of stagnation and contribute to feelings of isolation and loneliness. Routines are something that carers can help implement back into senior lives, from bathing, grooming, and dressing routines to food shipping and meal preparation to attending social events and enjoying activities. Having a routine and plan in place gives elderly people something to focus on and look forward to while renewing a sense of purpose.
Arrange Home Care near Manchester.
If you have an elderly loved one who lives alone and loneliness is a concern of yours, speak to Beloved Homecare today to organise home care in Manchester.
With our experienced and friendly team on hand to provide physical and mental support, our senior clients can continue to live in the familiar surroundings of home while reducing the risk of loneliness and isolation seeping in. Our team dedicates their time to understanding the needs of each client and taking a person-centered approach to care, ensuring said needs are met, and seniors feel their individuality is valued.
Beloved Homecare provides various services, including – domestic, personal, 24-hour, end-of-life, and dementia care. You can learn more about these services on our website, where you can also find our contact information if you wish to discuss home care in Manchester in more detail.
